Before I headed to New Hampshire I attended an audition for Yellowman by Dael Orlandersmith. I only attended this audition because a dear friend (my artist warrior) brought to my attention that a theatre was seeking someone to play the role of Alma. I was fresh off the bus from Philadelphia after choreographing a fashion show and visiting my then boyfriend, I really just wanted to head to bed. This is why you need artist warriors in your life. They are the ones who will remind you that you need to take your ass to the audition even when you are feeling completely unmotivated. I have a few in my life and we are that voice of reason and inspiration for each other constantly.
So after being cussed out over the phone, I headed to the audition. I did not have an appointment but their 11:30 am had not shown up. So the monitor asked if I would like to go in. Sure, why not?
I entered the room and there are 2 gentlemen. I started and finished my monologue and then he started putting me through the paces. More and more directions were being thrown at me. Some I agreed with and some simply annoyed me. Then I read with the reader and that just drove me bonkers because mack trucks went through each line since he had slow cue pick ups. In my mind, I am screaming. I cannot wait to get out of there. And the worst part was that I love the play and still do. He said thank you and off to New Hampshire I went.
While I am there, I have NO service on my cell. And the bed and breakfast we stayed at only had dial up for the internet. I literally felt like I was in a technological island. One day during rehearsal, I was informed that the library had internet (It was only open in the afternoon). During break, I ran over to check my emails since I barely could get any phone calls. What did I find?! Several emails from the Black Repertory Theater in Providence, Rhode Island offering me the role of Alma in Yellowman! What!? Shame it was dated days ago. I quickly sent a response back and the negotiations began.
I finally got a call from my mom who simply said, "It is time for you to come and get Maya." Boom! Can you come soon? Boom!
This was not my mom stopping her support or being a non-believer. This is life and truth. This is one of the many scenarios that come with being a single parent actress.
How does it feel when you daughter is mad at you? How do you prepare for a 3-dimensional role when you have been previously a type (sassy black girl)? It looks like a life lesson
or how do you play a "maid" (Stage Door) just to get your foot in the door with Theater in Los Angeles, and still look your children in the face and tell them "you can be anything you want to be"; or have the same quasi-motivation from your then spouse who is battling his own insecurities, and still stay in the game?
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